MINI has announced that its new convertible line-up will include a high performance John Cooper Works model. With the new open-top due for release in the spring, the uprated JCW version will be priced from £26,300 which is a £4,200 increase above the Cooper S.

Power from the 2.0-litre turbo engine is up by 39bhp to 231hp which results in a 0-60mph sprint time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 149mph.

Automatic versions, fitted with a steptronic box and costing from £28,205, are slightly faster yet more economical to run thanks to stop/start and a coasting function which gives it an official fuel return of 47.9mpg with carbon emissions of 138g/km. As a manual it is rated at 43.5mpg.

Uprated brakes and suspension are fitted to cope with the extra power and like all versions of the new MINI convertible, the JCW model comes with the option of a Union Jack pattern on the hood.

It also features additional aerodynamic features including extra air intakes at the front, prominent side sills, a rear diffuser and is available in a special Rebel Green paint finish.

The hood takes 18 seconds to operate and can be opened and closed electronically at speeds of up to 30mph. Another quirky yet practical feature is the option of a ‘weather app’ which warns when rain is imminent.